Finally, a Gentle Fix for Overactive Bladder—Without Medication | TTNS Therapy
If you or someone you care for is living with an overactive bladder (OAB), you know how disruptive it can be. The constant urgency, frequent trips to the bathroom, and worry about leakage can make it hard to relax, travel, or even sleep through the night.
But here’s the good news: there’s now a gentle, drug-free therapy that can help calm your bladder and restore your confidence—Transcutaneous Tibial Nerve Stimulation (TTNS).
What Is TTNS Therapy?
TTNS stands for Transcutaneous Tibial Nerve Stimulation, a non-invasive therapy that uses mild electrical pulses to help regulate bladder activity.
This simple, science-backed treatment can help reduce:
Sudden urinary urgency
Frequent urination (both day and night)
Urge incontinence
Even bowel urgency, in some cases
TTNS works through the body’s own nerve pathways—without medication, surgery, or side effects that often come with traditional treatments.
How Does TTNS Work?
A small TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation) device delivers gentle electrical pulses through two sticky pads placed on your ankle. These impulses stimulate the posterior tibial nerve, which communicates with the nerves that control bladder function.
Over time, this neuromodulation helps calm overactive signals, allowing the bladder to store urine more comfortably and reducing the sudden need to go.
Typical treatment plan:
Session time: 30 minutes
Frequency: 1–2 sessions per week for about 12 sessions
Follow-ups: As recommended by your physiotherapist
Many patients begin to notice improvements in just a few weeks.
Why Patients Love TTNS
Patients often describe TTNS as a “gentle reset” for the bladder. Here’s why it’s quickly becoming a preferred choice:
Non-invasive and comfortable – no needles, no downtime
Drug-free – avoids the side effects of bladder medications
Effective – proven to reduce urgency and incontinence episodes
Empowering – restores control and confidence in daily life
For many, it’s the first time in years they can sleep through the night or go out without planning every restroom stop.
Who Can Benefit from TTNS?
TTNS is designed for adults who:
Have been diagnosed with overactive bladder
Have tried pelvic floor therapy or medications with limited success
Prefer a natural, evidence-based option under a physiotherapist’s care
If that sounds like you, TTNS may be the next step toward lasting relief.
Side Effects and Safety
TTNS is generally very safe. Some people notice a mild tingling, cramping, or slight skin irritation at the electrode site, but this usually fades quickly.
If you ever experience discomfort, simply pause your session and speak with your therapist.
Tips for At-Home Sessions
Sit comfortably during treatment
Keep your skin clean and dry before applying electrodes
Avoid using TTNS near water or while sleeping
Consistency is key—stick with your schedule for best results
When to Call Your Physiotherapist
If you’re ready to explore whether TTNS therapy is right for you, our pelvic health team is here to guide you.
Call 1-800-491-0909, select option 9, or say “triage” to speak with a nurse.
A member of our team will answer or return your call promptly to schedule your session.
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No, most patients feel only a gentle tingling or pulsing sensation. The electrical stimulation is low-level and easily adjustable to your comfort level.
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Many people notice improvement within 4–6 sessions, while others may need the full 12-session program before experiencing lasting relief. Results often continue to improve with maintenance sessions.
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Each session typically lasts about 30 minutes. During this time, you can sit comfortably, read, or relax while the device works.
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TTNS is usually performed or prescribed by a pelvic health physiotherapist or trained clinician. They’ll teach you proper electrode placement and settings for safe at-home use.escription
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Yes. After initial in-office sessions and proper instruction, many patients continue TTNS therapy at home using a small TENS device. Your physiotherapist will guide you on when and how to do this safely.
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The most common side effects are mild and could inlcude light cramping, tingling, or slight redness at the electrode site.
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Some insurance plans may cover TTNS as part of pelvic floor rehabilitation or neuromodulation therapy. It’s best to check with your insurance company or your health facilitators for more information.
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Unlike medications, TTNS doesn’t cause dry mouth, constipation, or dizziness. It’s also non-surgical, unlike implanted nerve stimulators. It’s a gentle, natural option that complements other bladder health therapies.
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TTNS may not be suitable for people with pacemakers, implanted defibrillators, nerve damage near the ankle, or metal implants in the treatment area. Always consult your clinician before starting.
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You can enhance your results by practicing pelvic floor exercises, avoiding bladder irritants (like caffeine and alcohol), maintaining good hydration, and following a bladder retraining schedule recommended by your provider.